Police Watchdog Investigates Injury at RCMP Detachment
Alberta's police oversight agency has launched an investigation into an incident where a handcuffed woman sustained injuries while in custody at the Gleichen RCMP detachment. The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) confirmed it is examining the circumstances surrounding the woman's injury, which occurred in late November 2025.
The investigation was initiated after RCMP officials reported the incident to ASIRT, following standard protocol for serious matters involving police actions. While specific details about the nature and severity of the woman's injuries remain undisclosed, ASIRT has taken charge of the case to ensure independent oversight.
Details of the Gleichen Incident
The incident took place at the Gleichen RCMP detachment, located approximately 100 kilometres east of Calgary. According to available information, the woman was handcuffed at the time she sustained her injuries, raising questions about the circumstances that led to the incident.
ASIRT, which operates independently from police services, is tasked with investigating incidents involving Alberta police that result in serious injury or death. Their mandate includes determining whether police officers may have committed criminal offences during the execution of their duties.
The investigation comes amid ongoing scrutiny of police practices across Canada, particularly regarding the treatment of individuals in custody. The Gleichen RCMP detachment serves several First Nations communities in the area, including Siksika Nation, adding additional context to the ongoing investigation.
Broader Context and Next Steps
This incident marks another case in ASIRT's growing workload, reflecting increased public demand for police accountability. The watchdog agency has investigated numerous police-related incidents across Alberta since its establishment, though most do not result in criminal charges against officers.
Community advocates have emphasized the importance of transparent investigations when injuries occur during police interactions, particularly when individuals are restrained or in custody. The outcome of ASIRT's investigation could have implications for police procedures and training standards.
While the investigation continues, RCMP have deferred all comments to ASIRT, maintaining their standard practice of not discussing active investigations. The police watchdog typically releases detailed reports upon completion of their investigations, though this process can take several months depending on the complexity of the case.
Local residents and community leaders await further details as ASIRT continues its work examining the circumstances that led to the woman's injury while she was in police custody at the Gleichen detachment.
